Walter Sisulu University (WSU) has denied that the individual who died during a violent protest at its Mthatha campus on Tuesday was a registered student. The shocking incident, which resulted in one fatality and two injuries, has sent ripples through the academic community and reignited concerns over campus safety and student grievances.
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Early Morning Chaos at Mthatha Campus
The protest erupted early on Tuesday morning, catching WSU management by surprise. According to official statements, the demonstration was not preceded by any formal grievance or letter of demand, making the eruption of violence even more unexpected. A group of students, reportedly upset about living conditions in university residences, allegedly stormed into the on-campus residence manager’s house in an attempt to express their frustrations.
What followed was tragic.
Eastern Cape police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana confirmed that a confrontation ensued, during which the residence manager allegedly fired shots at the protesting students. One male individual died on the scene, while another was rushed to hospital with serious injuries. A third person also sustained injuries amid the chaos.
In retaliation, the protesting group reportedly set the residence manager’s vehicle on fire and assaulted his wife, striking her on the head with a hard object. Law enforcement, including Mthatha Public Order Policing, intervened to rescue the residence manager and his family.
WSU: Fatality Not a Registered Student
Hours after the violent events unfolded, WSU released a public statement clarifying that the deceased was not a registered student of the university. Ndiyakholwa Ngqulu, Director of Special Projects in the WSU Vice-Chancellor’s office, addressed the matter, stating:
“Each year, people register to be students at the university. Some graduate, some leave, and some come back. As of today, Walter Sisulu University registration for undergraduates and postgraduates has closed. In our database, the name we have received and the details of the alleged person who has died is not a student.”
Despite this, some students have disputed the university’s claims, insisting that the individual was indeed enrolled at WSU. As of now, no official verification has been released to reconcile the conflicting accounts.
Government and Political Reaction
The incident has drawn sharp responses from government officials and political leaders alike. Minister of Higher Education, Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, condemned the tragedy and called for immediate clarity. She confirmed that she had spoken directly with WSU Vice-Chancellor, Professor Rushiella Songca, to demand a thorough report.
“Dr. Nkabane is resolute that no student should ever be harmed while accessing their right to education. This must be the last time we are forced to respond to such a tragedy at our institutions of higher learning,” read a statement from the minister’s office.
Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) Eastern Cape legislature leader, Yusuf Cassim, has called for an independent investigation into the incident. He emphasized that only a transparent and impartial inquiry could restore trust between students, university management, and the broader public.
A Broader Conversation on Campus Safety
The tragic events at WSU’s Mthatha campus underscore the urgent need for universities across South Africa to take proactive steps in addressing student concerns before they escalate into violence. Protests about accommodation and campus conditions are not new in the higher education landscape. However, this incident has tragically demonstrated what can happen when dialogue breaks down.
As the investigation continues, students, faculty, and families await answers. Meanwhile, WSU has urged calm and cooperation, stating that any acts of violence or retaliation will be handled through legal and disciplinary channels.
The death of a young individual—whether or not they were a registered student—marks a dark moment in WSU’s recent history. While the university maintains its position regarding the victim’s enrollment status, the broader issue of student unrest and campus safety remains a pressing concern. As calls for an independent investigation grow louder, it is clear that higher education institutions must do more to create safe, responsive environments for all.
